Pope Appoints New Cardinals (Jan. 21): John Paul II names a record 37, including three Americans, in move to shape future of Roman Catholic Church. (Jan. 28): In unexpected move, pontiff appoints seven more cardinals.

Libyan Convicted in Flight 103 Bombing (Jan. 31): Scottish court finds Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed al-Megrahi, an intelligence officer, guilty of murder in deaths of 270 over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988. Court convened in Netherlands. A second defendant is released. In Washington, White House says verdict will not end sanctions on Libya.

Logging of Oldest Trees Banned (Jan. 8): Head of Clinton's Forest Service halts harvesting of old-growth timber on public lands.

Bush Cabinet Choice Withdraws (Jan. 9): Linda Chavez withdraws her nomination to be labor secretary after admitting to providing shelter and financial assistance to an illegal immigrant in the early 1990s.

Clinton Presents Final Message (Jan. 14): Departing president urges Congress to enact broad program to promote racial unity between whites and minorities.

Clinton Settles Long Legal Battle (Jan. 19): Forges deal with Independent Counsel Robert W. Ray to avoid a possible indictment by admitting that he gave false testimony about relationship with White House intern. He also agrees to give up law license for five years.

George W. Bush Sworn In as 43rd President (Jan. 20): In inaugural speech he plans to unite nation after one of most-disputed elections in history. He says “civility is not a tactic or a sentiment” but “a choice of trust over cynicism.”